O'Dowd Calls Gove On Education Consultation

Education Minister John O’Dowd has welcomed the chance to discuss the issue of consultation on educational issues at a meeting with UK Secretary of State for Education Michael Gove.

"Mr Gove has previously made announcements about the future of examinations in England without any form of consultation with the administrations in Wales or the north of Ireland," Mr O'Dowd said.

"I had already expressed my disappointment and concern about the lack of consultation and today’s meeting provided an opportunity to reiterate this message and outline the importance of keeping both myself and Minister Andrews informed of any major policy decisions and respecting the concordats that are in place."

The meeting in London was also attended by Welsh Education Minister, Leighton Andrews AM.

Minister O’Dowd continued: "Today’s meeting with Secretary of State Gove and Minister Andrews has been very useful. I welcomed the opportunity to discuss key issues such as the development of GCSE, AS and A-level examinations, the regulation of 3 country qualifications and arrangements for sharing information about policy developments, which affect other regions.

"I therefore welcome the commitment from Secretary of State Gove today that in future there will be a process of engagement and consultation before any further decisions or announcements about the future of examinations are taken."

A Welsh Government spokesperson said: "The Ministers enjoyed a frank but cordial discussion focusing on the three country agreement on qualifications.

"There was a commitment to communicate and work together better in relation to respecting divergent policy decisions by the different administrations, and in future the concordat that exists between education departments will be honoured.

"This is a complicated time for parents and learners as new qualifications systems evolve, and it is important that their interests come first as changes are worked through."

(IT/MH)